HONOLULU — The Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) reminds the fishing public that the season for ‘ama‘ama (striped mullet) will be closed from Sunday, Dec. 1, 2013, through Monday, March 31, 2014.

“ ‘Ama‘ama are about to enter their peak spawning season, which increases their vulnerability to fishing pressure,” said William J. Aila, Jr., DLNR chairperson. “The annual winter closure is designed to help the fish reproduce successfully and protect the species from overfishing.”

Violations of the size or season restrictions can result in fines of up to $500 and/or 30 days in jail, plus up to $100 for each fish taken. In addition to criminal penalties, an administrative fine of up to $1,000 per violation may be assessed by the department.

“We ask the public’s kokua in complying with the closed season,” Aila said. “While it’s DLNR’s job to protect our marine resources, everyone shares in the responsibility to take care of important fish species like ‘ama‘ama to ensure their survival into the future.”

Copies of statewide fishing regulations for ‘ama‘ama and all other marine species are available in Honolulu at the DLNR-Aquatics office, 1151 Punchbowl St., Room 330, and at all neighbor island DLNR-Aquatics offices. Fishing regulations can also be found on the Division of Aquatic Resources’ website at hawaii.gov/dlnr/dar. To report fish catch size or net violations, call (808) 643-DLNR (643-3567).